Desert FM 95.3

The forceful removal of journalist Jemima Beukes from State House after she questioned president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has sparked widespread concern over press freedom, transparency and the conduct of state security.

Speaking to Desert FM, Independent Patriots for Change information and communication technology shadow minister John-Louw Mouton shares his views on the incident and its broader implications.

The removal of a journalist from State House has raised fresh concerns about communication protocols, political culture and the relationship between the presidency and the media.

Speaking to Desert FM, former Swapo information officer Helmut Angula reflects on how similar situations were handled in the past and the lessons that remain relevant today.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will officially open the third session of Namibia’s eighth parliament on Tuesday under the theme 'Enhancing the role of parliament for inclusive development and participatory democracy'.

This comes as criticism has grown over last year’s limited legislative output, with only the national budget passed.

Speaking to Desert FM, Swapo parliamentarian John Likando addresses public expectations, accountability and priorities for the upcoming session.

Seasoned journalist Elvis Muraraganda weighs in on the removal of Whistle Namibia founder Jemima Biakas from State House, saying the incident was undesirable and highlights ongoing challenges around access to information. He stresses the need for clearer media–state protocols and stronger communication channels to protect press freedom in Namibia.

Uhuru Dempers, head of the Socio-Economic Justice Unit at the Council of Churches in Namibia, speaks on the ongoing consultations around the Universal Health Care Bill, saying it is a step toward equitable, affordable healthcare for all Namibians. He argues that pooling public and private resources and solidarity-based funding are key to ensuring basic health services without financial burden on citizens.

Herero paramount chief Dr Hoze Riruako calls on the state to strengthen security for traditional leaders, citing rising crime, limited police presence, and recent attacks on traditional authorities. He says traditional leadership is not taken seriously enough and warns that a proactive approach is needed to protect leaders and communities in rural and communal areas.

Patrick Nashandi, founder of the Nash Serenity Foundation, speaks about the launch of a new Narcotics and Alcoholics Anonymous support group in Swakopmund, aimed at providing a confidential, non-judgemental space for people struggling with substance abuse. Nashandi says the initiative was inspired by his own lived experience with addiction and is meant to help individuals seek recovery without fear or stigma.

Journalist and The Whistle Namibia founder Jemima Beukes claims she was escorted out of State House after attempting to question president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah during a Cabinet opening.

She alleges that security officers also confiscated a phone that recorded the incident and threatened her with arrest.

Speaking to Desert FM, Beukes shares her account of the event and reflects on what the incident could mean for press freedom and journalism in Namibia.

The government has reiterated its ‘buy local first’ directive, calling on all ministries, departments and agencies to prioritise local suppliers when procuring goods and services in a bid to strengthen domestic industries, create jobs and reduce import dependence.

Speaking to Desert FM, Hospitality Association of Namibia chief executive and long-serving Team Namibia board member Gitta Paetzold highlights the importance of public institutions supporting local production for sustainable economic growth.

Agribank has announced that its arrears relief programme will enter the implementation phase on 2 February, offering qualifying clients up to a 100% write-off on penalty interest and structured repayment options to help farmers settle outstanding loans. Speaking on Desert FM, Jane Kuhanga from the Previously Disadvantaged Namibian Farmers Union discussed the programme’s implications, the application window ending 31 August and what it means for affected farmers.